This Sweetened Condensed Milk Dry Mix is an easy homemade alternative to store-bought cans. It’s perfect for baking, keeps well in the pantry, and can be mixed up in minutes whenever a recipe calls for a 14-ounce can.
There’s something deeply comforting about having the basics made from scratch and ready to go in the pantry. Sweetened condensed milk is one of those quiet workhorse ingredients. It shows up in classic desserts, holiday baking, no-bake treats, and even a cozy cup of coffee now and then.
Why I Love This Homemade Dry Mix
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- No cans to stock or recycle
- Long shelf life when stored properly
- Easy to mix only what you need
- Ideal for baking, desserts, and coffee
It’s practical, frugal, and comforting. Just the way farmhouse recipes should be.
Easy Sweetened Condensed Milk Dry Mix
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Instant Dry Milk Powder
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream Powder
- 1 1/4 Cups Sugar
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight container.3 Cups Instant Dry Milk Powder, 1 Cup Heavy Cream Powder, 1 1/4 Cups Sugar
- Yield. About 5 1/4 cups dry mix total, which fills one quart jar plus a little extra. This makes approximately three 14-ounce can replacements of sweetened condensed milk.
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
How Much Is in a Can of Sweetened Condensed Milk?
A standard can of sweetened condensed milk contains 14 ounces, which equals about 1 1/4 cups. This homemade version is designed to be a simple, reliable substitute in your favorite farmhouse recipes.How to Prepare the Sweetened Condensed Milk
To replace one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk:Ingredients
- 1 3/4 Cups Sweetened Condensed Milk Dry Mix
- 1/2 Cup Water, very hot
- 2 Tablespoons Butter, melted
- 1/8 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)
Instructions
Use a blender or bowl and add the hot water, dry mix, melted butter, and vanilla. Blend or whisk everything together until smooth. Use this right away in your recipe or pour into a clean jar and pop in the refrigerator. It will thicken after a few minutes. Note. It will get super thick in the refrigerator if you leave it in for 30 minutes or so. Get a Printable Recipe Card for your storage container.Nutrition
Common Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk
This homemade sweetened condensed milk works anywhere a store-bought would be used, making it a versatile staple for farmhouse kitchens.
- Old-fashioned fudge and candy
- Pies and pie fillings (pumpkin, key lime, and cream pies)
- No-bake desserts and cookie bars
- Homemade ice cream
- Coffee or tea sweetener
- Holiday and special-occasion baking
Because it replaces a 14-ounce can, you can use it confidently in family-favorite recipes.
Storage Tips
- Dry Mix. Store in an airtight container or mason jar in a cool, dry pantry. Shelf life depends on your milk powders, but it typically keeps for several months.
- Prepared Condensed Milk. Store covered in the refrigerator and use within 3–5 days.
Does this taste like canned sweetened condensed milk?
Very close. In baked goods and desserts, most people cannot tell the difference.
Can I use nonfat dry milk powder?
Yes. Instant dry milk powder is usually nonfat. The heavy cream powder and butter add the richness needed for a traditional texture.
Is this mix shelf stable?
Yes, when stored properly in an airtight container and made with fresh ingredients.
Do I need a blender?
No. A blender gives the smoothest results but whisking works well too.
Can I make this sugar free?
Yes, with a few adjustments. Traditional sweetened condensed milk relies on sugar for both sweetness and texture, so a true one‑for‑one sugar‑free version will taste slightly different. For a sugar‑free option, replace the sugar in the dry mix with a granulated sugar substitute designed for baking (such as monk fruit blends or erythritol blends that measure cup‑for‑cup like sugar). When prepared, expect a slightly thinner texture and less caramelized flavor in baked recipes.
Can you freeze sweetened condensed milk?
Yes. Prepared sweetened condensed milk (homemade or store‑bought) can be frozen. Pour it into a freezer‑safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir or whisk well before using. The texture may separate slightly, but it smooths out once mixed.
A Simple Pantry Recipe
This dry mix is a wonderful example of how small, homemade pantry recipes can make everyday cooking and baking easier. It’s simple, reliable, and one you’ll reach for again and again.
A wonderful pantry staple to have on hand.